Horse found severely malnourished in Madera County, owner arrested

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A 20-year-old Madera County man has been arrested, accused of animal cruelty.

According to sheriff's deputies, a severely malnourished horse was found near Avenue 14 and Hemlock Road. A deputy noticed the animal lying on its side while out on patrol and found its living conditions shortly after.

Authorities arrested the horse's owner, Axel Herrera-Martinez, Monday. He faces felony charges of animal cruelty.

Madera County Animal Control officials said the horse is to be humanely euthanized.